American University’s standing as a global-reaching institution is reflected in our accreditation credentials and high rankings in major surveys and studies.

University and School Accreditation

American University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and recognized by the University Senate of the United Methodist Church.

General Rankings

Princeton Review Best Colleges (2021)

  • No. 4, College Gets High Marks
  • No. 5, Most Politically Active Students
  • No. 1, Most Active Student Government
  • The Best 386 Colleges
  • A Best Northeastern College
  • No. 11, Top 50 Green Colleges

U.S. News & World Report Best Grad School (2023)

  • No. 10, Best Public Affairs Programs
  • No. 4, Public Management and Leadership
  • No. 6, Public International Policy & Administration

TheBestSchools.org (2020)

  • No. 10, Best Online Master of Public Administration Degree Program
  • No. 7, Best Online Master's in Sport Management Program
  • No. 4, Best Online Master's in Economics Degree Program

Top Management Degrees (2015)

  • No. 6 Top Online Master’s Degree in Public Administration

“National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) Report” (2012)
Our students say active learning is the norm. Their responses placed American above its peer institutions in the categories of:

  • Level of Academic Challenge
  • Student-Faculty Interaction
  • Enriching Educational Experiences

Career Rankings

Even in a tough job market, 92.5 percent of American University grads with graduate degrees find jobs or go on to further studies.

  • American is a top school in the nation for the percentage of students holding internships
  • No. 1 nationally for combined Boren scholars and fellows
  • No. 3 nationally for Presidential Management Fellows semifinalists
  • Top producer of Fulbright scholars

Community Service Rankings

American University students translate a passion for public service into action.

  • American University is ranked No. 3 for medium-sized colleges with the most volunteers in the Peace Corps (2014)
  • For the eighth year, the Corporation for National and Community Service has named American to the 2014 President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll
  • G.I. Jobs magazine names American one of its "Military Friendly Schools" (2015)

Find out what makes American University one of the most highly ranked universities in the country: call us toll-free at 855-725-7614 to speak to an Admissions Adviser, or request more information online.